RR vs GT: Why is Yashasvi Jaiswal Captaining Rajasthan Royals Today? Why is Riyan Parag not Playing?

Rajasthan Royals are playing Gujarat Titans in an important IPL 2026 match on Saturday (May 10) at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.

RR fielded Yashasvi Jaiswal as captain for this match, much to the surprise for many. He won the toss and elected to bowl first.

RR vs GT: Why is Riyan Parag not Playing?

Riyan Parag has suffered an injury, which is the reason behind his absence in the side. The stand-in captain Yashasvi Jaiswal confirmed the news that Parag has pulled his hamstring.

"We want to bowl first. I think the wicket is pretty good. Parag pulled his hamstring, he will be coming back soon. Hetty comes in. I am really excited. Looking forward to the game," Jaiswal said at the toss.

This is also Jaiswal's captaincy debut in the IPL, who has been associated with the franchise since the beginning of his career.

Yashasvi Jaiswal RR Captain

Yashasvi Jaiswal has also thus become the 8th captain for the Rajasthan Royals.

Shane Warne (2008-2011) - 56 matches, Led RR to their only IPL title in 2008.

Rahul Dravid (2012-2013) - 40 matches.

Shane Watson (2014-2015) - 21 matches.

Steve Smith (2014-2020) - 27 matches (interim & full-time).

Ajinkya Rahane (2018-2019) - 24 matches.

Sanju Samson (2021-2025) - 67 matches, led to IPL 2022 final.

Riyan Parag (2026-present) - Current captain.

Yashasvi Jaiswal (2026) - Stand-in for Parag